Aunt Robyn’s Simple Sweet Potato Casserole

🍠 Aunt Robyn’s Simple Sweet Potato Casserole 🍠

History:
Sweet potato casserole is a beloved dish often enjoyed during Thanksgiving and other special occasions in the United States. While it doesn’t have a single, definitive origin, it is deeply rooted in American Southern cuisine, where sweet potatoes have been a staple for centuries. The dish likely evolved from African and Native American culinary traditions, combining sweet potatoes with sugar, spices, and toppings to create a delicious, sweet-savory side dish.

Components:

• 4 cups of mashed sweet potatoes (about 3-4 large sweet potatoes)
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup milk
• For the topping:
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into chunks and boil them until they are fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain them well.

2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes:

   • In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until they are smooth.

3. Mix the Base:

   • Add white sugar, eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, and milk to the mashed sweet potatoes. Combine all these ingredients until you have a creamy, smooth mixture.

4. Prepare the Topping:

   • In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. This will be your delectable topping.

5. Layering:

   • Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
   • Transfer the sweet potato mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

6. Add the Topping:

   • Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the sweet potato base. This adds a delightful, crunchy texture.

7. Baking:

   • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.

8. Serve:

   • Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s perfect as a side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special meal.

Time Needed:

• The preparation time is approximately 20-30 minutes.
• Baking takes around 30 minutes.
• So, in total, you can prepare Aunt Robyn’s Simple Sweet Potato Casserole in about 50-60 minutes.

Enjoy this delightful, sweet, and savory casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite at your gatherings! 🍠😋

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Aunt Robyn’s Simple Sweet Potato Casserole:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 120mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 46g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 34g
• Protein: 3g

Health Information:

1. Sweet Potatoes:

   • Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.
   • They are high in fiber, which can aid digestion and help maintain a feeling of fullness.
   • Sweet potatoes are considered a complex carbohydrate with a lower glycemic index, making them a better choice for blood sugar control compared to regular potatoes.

2. Sugar Content:

   • This casserole is on the sweeter side due to the added sugar and topping. While it’s delicious, it’s essential to consume it in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of your sugar intake.

3. Butter and Calories:

   • The use of butter in this recipe contributes to its rich flavor but also increases the calorie and fat content. If you’re looking to reduce calories or saturated fat, you can consider using a butter substitute.

4. Pecans:

   • Pecans are a nutritious addition to this dish, providing healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
   • They’re rich in antioxidants and can be heart-healthy when consumed in moderation.

5. Portion Control:

   • It’s important to be mindful of portion sizes, as the calorie and sugar content can add up quickly. Enjoy it as a treat during special occasions rather than a regular part of your diet.

6. Vitamins and Minerals:

   • The casserole is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A from sweet potatoes, and it provides essential nutrients your body needs.

Remember that while this casserole is delicious and offers some nutritional benefits, it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It’s a wonderful addition to holiday meals and special occasions. 😊🍠🥘